Devoted to online marketing, viral marketing, and web marketing

I finally bought an iPod Nano. Well, I really didn’t buy it. My wife bought it for my birthday. Thank you honey :-)

Upon registration of my new iPod, their not-so-well designed opt-in policy caught my eye. It reads “I would like to receive Apple news, software updates, special offers, and information about related products and services from other companies.”

I wanted to opt-in to Apple-only news, updates, and special offers. But, I do not want Apple to allow “other companies” to contact me. Do you see the dilemma? I had to answer “no” so Apple lost the opportunity to up-sell me iPod accessories in the future.

Continue reading to see a better way to ask for opt-in information...

Privacy is of great concern to the majority of online users. When designing an opt-in strategy, especially when your customer has already made a purchase of your product, and most likely want to hear from you, make sure you nail it.

I also just purchased Money 2006 Business. Microsoft did a much better job at presenting their opt-in services and policies. This is a great example of how to create an opt-in strategy.

Also remember that it is OK to sell or share customer information with third-parties if your business plan fits that strategy and if your customers opt-in and agree.